The McKinney Fire Department has launched a new program aimed at giving patients in life-threatening situations access to blood before they get to the hospital.
The full story
Department officials announced the launch of its prehospital blood program in February, according to a city news release. As of Feb. 16, the program allows specially equipped medical units to carry and administer blood to critically ill or injured patients en route to the hospital.
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-McKinney is collaborating with the fire department on the new program, according to the release.
The department will carry O-positive blood, which is widely used in emergency situations and considered a safe and effective option for most patients. The blood will be available 24 hours a day and can be dispatched by emergency communications or sent with a medical unit dispatched to calls meeting certain medical criteria.
Quote of note
In a statement, Fire Chief Paul Dow said the program is an example of the fire department’s commitment to evidence-based medicine and delivering the “highest level of emergency care” in McKinney.
“For McKinney residents, this new program means faster access to advanced care when it matters most and another step forward in emergency medical services focused on saving lives,” he said.
A closer look
Before the program was launched, patients received intravenous fluids such as saline while being transported by ambulance. Medical research shows that giving blood earlier can improve outcomes for patients experiencing severe trauma.
Battalion Fire Chief Ben Jones said in a statement that blood carries oxygen, which is “desperately” needed during life-threatening emergencies.
“By administering blood sooner, our paramedics can begin life-saving treatment as early as possible,” Jones said. “This allows patients to arrive at the hospital in better condition and ready for the next level of care.”
